Tag: Manchester

August was a time of civil unrest in cities including Manchester, Salford, Liverpool, Nottingham and Birmingham, with shops being looted and set ablaze. Victims of the riots sadly face a tough financial crisis as they try to restore the damage to their businesses and properties while at the same time trying to recover loss of earnings and stock.

The Head of Media at British Retail Consortium had expressed concern that all the damages to shops and homes caused by the rioting and looting could hit the £1 million mark. It’s feared that many will no longer want to trade again as they know the police will not be able to protect them because of the lack of control they had over the hoodlums.

The British government may have to leverage £100 million on UK taxpayers in the coming years to help restore London. At the same time London Metropolitan Police will also shoulder the insurance to people who were affected by the mayhem. The Riots (Damages) Act of 1886 specifically dictates that if the nature of the destruction is caused by riots sparked by the peoples’ resentment against the government, then the police will have to compensate the affected ones.

Local City Councils are providing the following help to those who were affected:

Local Business Support If you operate a business in the affected area of the rioting and it sustained damages, you could be eligible to seek help from your local council. Assistance includes loans for repairs / refurbishments; this will help to shoulder expenses that may be beyond your means. Expert advice will also be available.

Rebuild Your Home Support If your home sustained extensive damaged as a result of the riots and you do not have the funds to repair the damage, then you could be eligible for government assistance. You could receive up to £5,000; however this depends on your personal circumstances.

Riot (Damages) Act According to The Riots (Damages) Act of 1886, you could be eligible to claim from your local police department if you do not have sufficient insurance to cover your losses.

Riot Victim Support If you’ve sustained physical injuries or have been emotionally shaken by the disturbance, there are a number of government-funded charities that are providing emotional support and advice on taking legal action against assailants.

The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) is a counter checking agency that is visiting affected areas and making assessments on whether or not certain properties should be exempt of taxes, or at the very least, reduce the tax that has been previously imposed.

Tax Adjustments Should the Local Council deem you worthy, they could give you tax discounts to provide support while you’re recovering from the effects of the riots.

Sharron Ellis writes about debt and offers information on debt management and bankruptcy.